After the Philadelphia Union Academy, college soccer, and a two-year learning experience overseas, Downingtown West High School graduate Zack Steffen has reached his goal of starting for a professional team.

Now he just has to defend that goal, both literally and figuratively.

Steffen debuted as the starting goalkeeper for the Columbus Crew at the beginning of the season, according to a Major League Soccer report by Andrew King.

Advertisement

Through seven matches, he has played every single minute at that position for the Crew, who sit in first place in the Eastern Conference with 13 points and a 4-2-1 record.

“It feels good that people trust me — that my hard work has paid off,” said Steffen, 22, who played collegiately at Maryland. “But the hard work isn’t going to stop.”

The starting role at MAPFRE Stadium in Ohio was the surprise result of a preseason duel between Steffen and fellow goalkeeper Brad Stuver.

“It’s been really cool to see him mature,” said captain Wil Trapp. “He’s a gamer. He’s one of those guys who, when he gets in the game, he’s laser-focused, and he makes the right decisions. He loves to communicate.

“So I’ve been massively impressed with that side of things.”

Read more about Zack Steffen from Major League Soccer’s website here.

Advertisement